The Story
Plant Bio
Tulbaghia violacea, commonly known as society garlic, is a perennial herb with narrow, sword-shaped leaves and clusters of small, star-shaped flowers.
Its leaves are aromatic, resembling garlic, which deters deer and other herbivores.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
18 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
7, 8, 9, 10
Water
Low
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
South Africa
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds lightly into well-draining soil in spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy during germination.
- Mist cuttings with water to encourage root development.
- Transplant seedlings when they are large enough to handle, usually after 8 weeks.
- Position in full sun for optimal growth and flowering.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining soil and full sun for best flowering and health.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently during dry periods 🌱
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not use heavy clay soil without amendments
- Avoid excessive fertilizing which can lead to weak stems
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Society Garlic questions
What zones can Society Garlic grow in?
Society Garlic is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Society Garlic deer resistant?
Yes — Society Garlic is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Society Garlic bloom?
Society Garlic typically blooms in summer to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Society Garlic need full sun?
Society Garlic does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Society Garlic drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Society Garlic handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Society Garlic with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.